CALIFORNIA FLY FISHERS UNLIMITED SACRAMENTO’S OLDEST FLY FISHING CLUB SINCE 1962 February 2015 WWW.CFFU.ORG CASTING NEWS FROM LAURIE BANKS January has always been an exciting month for me. Not because of fishing, but because of football. I love watching the College Bowl games and NFL playoffs. This month as I watch football, I ponder why some teams are so good, and why some continue to flounder year after year. Is it the fault of the players, the coaching staff, the play calls? There is something so special about a good team; the camaraderie and respect members have for each other and the way they work together towards a common goal. My thoughts turn to CFFU, and how like a team it is. Our members form a group who share a passion for a sport. Our veterans help the rookies, take them under their wings, teach them and help them grow. I don’t think any newly hired coaching staff thinks their main objective is solely to maintain the team. Leaders believe they can do better. Is this year’s board akin to the coaching staff? If so we are in for a winning season. Your board members Dave Lentz, Chuck Honeycutt, Craig McCulloch, Jim Berdan, Phil Shipley, Bill Felts, Keith Pfeifer, Jim Walker, Ken Giesser, Carl Lang, Rich Kendal and Rich Wilson are tackling their positions with unbridled enthusiasm. We embrace everything that has been done to establish the strong foundation on which CFFU was built. Yet we will scrutinize and question the individual components which make up our program. Are they the very best they can be, or merely adequate? We have a game plan. We have three major goals: Increase coordination and communication between all programs Increase member participation Meet the diverse needs of our fly fishing members. We hope you will be pleased with small but significant upcoming changes. Please get involved in your club. Come to meetings, fishing outings, Tech Thursdays and Socials. Participate in community service and conservation opportunities. Tackle a job, not just as a participant or volunteer, but as a leader. Speaking of leaders and volunteers, a special shout-out goes to Rich Wilson, Gary Howard and all the members who did such a fantastic job manning the booth and tying flies at the ISE. Thank you Bill Felts and all the volunteers who spent their Saturday morning participating in the American River Parkway clean-up. Laurie Banks CFFU President 2015 FEBRUARY 3rd SPEAKER Our February Speaker is outfitter Rob Anderson of Reno and he will be presenting a program on Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake, Nevada. Rob is a Pyr amid specialist and was the fir st non -tribal fly fishing guide at the lake. He has a passion for this fishery and it shows! PHOTO CREDIT THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION OF PHOTOGRAPHS FOR THE NEWSLETTER: Rich Wilson Chris Weiland Bob Effa JimStalder Jeff Howard Phil McKibbin This is one of my personal favorite out of state trips and is within easy driving distance from Sacramento. If you would like a chance to land the trout of your lifetime, then plan on being here, taking notes and getting prepared. This is a program you won’t want to miss! Gary Howard NAME BADGE DRAWING by Rich Wilson Ken Giesser CFFU Programs Director Each month we will be drawing for a $30.00 gift certificate to be redeemed at one of the 3 fly shops in our area. Each month the $30.00 gift certificate will be from a different fly shop in rotation. To qualify for the name badge drawing a member MUST be wearing his or her CFFU engraved name badge. Each member will receive one ticket for wearing his or her engraved badge. At the end of the meeting one ticket will be drawn for the gift certificate. You must be present at the time of the drawing. New members will still be eligible to receive the 10% off any item at the LOGO table. Don't forget your name badge! ON THE FLY— February 2015 He will go over the history of the lake and the two strains of Cutthroat Trout that inhabit its waters. He will discuss techniques, gear needed, where and when to fish, along with information regarding rules and regulations. He will also offer suggestions on how to plan a trip and where to stay in the Reno area. Page 1 FLY TYING DEMO Come see Louis Hein, this month’s demo tier. Louis will tie some of his favorite fly patterns. He will start tying at 6:15 pm so come early to watch him tie some of his magic at the vise. Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. KELSEY BASS RANCH KIENE’S FLY SHOP THE FLY SHOP (REDDING) www.kelseybassranch.net/ www.kiene.com www.theflyshop.com DAVID LASS guide JAY and GLENN FAIR FLY FISHING SPECIALTIES www.jayfairflies.com www.flyfishingspecialties.com 619 West Pine St. Lodi, CA 95737 209-368-9261 10356 Donner Pass Rd. Truckee, CA 96161 530-388-8261 2654 Marconi Ave. Sacramento, CA. 916-486-9958 / 800-4000-FLY 810 Center Ave. Red Bluff, CA 96080 530-529-2831 4140 Churn Creek Rd. Redding, CA 96002 800-669-0359 6360 Tupelo Drive Citrus Heights, CA. 95610 916-722-1055 PHIL WHITE guide SIX HANDS WINERY Redding, CA 530-222-3555 3515 Fair Oaks Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95864 916-776-2053 13783 Isleton Walnut Grove, CA 95690 916-776-2053 www.sixhandswinery.com INTERMOUNTAIN LODGING VIRGINIA LAKES RESORT CARVALHO FAMILY WINES MARK KAESEMEYER guide P.O. Box 273 Mt. Shasta, CA 530-926-9851 www.coldcreekinn.com HC 62 BOX 1065 Bridgeport, CA. 93517-9602 760-647-6484 www.virginialakesresort.com 35265 Willow Ave. Clarksburg, CA. 95612 916-744-1625 www.carvalhowines.com Special thanks to A special thanks to Joe and Barbara Bania Beth Bittner Roberts For their generous donation. For a generous donation. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 2 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. FROM THE PAST FROM THE PAST, California Fly Fishermen Unlimited, On The Fly, 22 YEARS AGO – February 1993, Issue #360, page 4, “Ed Rice’s ISE Sets New Records “Attendance at the 1993 show was up an astounding 60% over last year’s event, setting new attendance records for the Sacramento show. Vendors’ and exhibitors’ apprehensions and low spirits were quite uplifted. With the recent storms and the popularity of the movie, A River Runs Through It, many are predicting an upturn in fishing and therefore, an upturn in the business of fishing. We certainly could relate to their comments. Volunteers were kept more than busy distributing information about the club. We distributed double the number of fliers over 1992. Special thanks for all the hard work and support go to those volunteers: WAYNE HAMMONDS, CHARLES “POP” TURNER, DAVE ELMORE, TOM AUBIN, JIM VICTORINE, JIM HADLEY, JOE ON, BILL SISKA, DOUG WAGOR, JERRY TAKEHARA, DICK BELAND, JIM BARNHART, MARCY BOYD, DON EDGAR, JIM EARLEY, BOB KNIGHT, WAYNE CHUBB, RICH SLABAUGH, CHUCK BUCCARIA, BOB SPITZER, LEON POWELL, GUY DEANER, DENNIS CROCKETT, ANITA BUNTER, EUGENE GRAHAM, TERRY THOMAS, CHUCK TURNER, DENNIS FERGUSON, BRUCE ROSS and DANNY SANTOS. February 2nd CFFU Board meeting at 6:30 pm February 3rd CFFU General meeting at 7:00 pm February 11th New member meeting at 6:30 pm at 3235 Pope Ave. Sacramento, CA February 19th Tech Thursday at 6:30 pm February 25th Monthly Social at 6:30 pm February 25th Deadline for article submission to newsletter March 2nd CFFU Board meeting at 6:30 pm March 3rd CFFU General meeting at 7:00 pm March 19th Tech Thursday at 6:30 pm March 25th Deadline for article submission to newsletter CFFU MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL Renewals will be accepted as of November 1, and must be paid no later than March 1, 2015. Individual membership: $30 NEW MEMBERS MEETING New members are encouraged to attend one of the quarterly meetings held at the Northminster Church, 3235 Pope Avenue, Sacramento, CA. Here you can meet other new members, ask questions, receive contact information and possibly find a fishing buddy. President Laurie Banks and Membership Director Rich Wilson supervise these meetings and will help you get the most out of your club. You will also receive a certificate for 6 free flies from local fly fishing shops. Family membership: $45 Junior membership: $15 Individual lifetime membership: $300 Family lifetime membership: $450 All memberships dues are for one year. You can pay your dues on-line, at the general meeting or mailing it to: CFFU FREE FLY DRAWING Attn: membership Bring a Fly to the monthly meeting and have a chance to win. Drop the fly in the cup at Rich Wilson’s desk and receive a ticket. At the end of the evening, a ticket is drawn and the winner gets all of the fly’s in the cup. P.O. Box 162997 Sacramento, CA 95816 WHO’S WHO IN CFFU OFFICERS NAME President President Elect Past President 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President Secretary Treasurer DIRECTORS Laurie Banks 2015 916-972-8537/ [email protected] Dave Lentz Bob Effa, 2015 916-443-4968/ [email protected] Chuck Honeycutt 2015 916-203-6092/[email protected] Craig McCulloch 2015 916-456-2482/[email protected] Phil Shipley 2015 916-383-3453/[email protected] Jim Berdan, 2009 thru 2015 916-448-3125/ [email protected] NAME PHONE NUMBER/ EMAIL ADDRESS Conservation Policy Dir. PHONE NUMBER/E-MAIL ADDRESS Keith Pfeifer 2015 530-753-7920/[email protected] Conservation Programs Dir. Bill Felts 2014 -2015 916-768-0658/ [email protected] Membership Director Richard Wilson, 2006 thru 2015 916-364-7545/ [email protected] Outings Director Rich Kendall 2015 916-277-4388/[email protected] Programs Director Ken Giesser 2014-2015 916-685-3125/ [email protected] Public Relations Director Jim Walker 2015 Tech Services Director Carl Lang, 2007 thru 2015 COMMITTEES NAME COMMITTEES 916-536-9049/[email protected] 916-967-2126/ [email protected] PHONE NUMBER/ EMAIL ADDRESS NAME PHONE NUMBER/ EMAIL ADDRESS Coachman Award Sam Yee, 2007 thru 2015 916-505-7722/ [email protected] Fly Tiers Exchange Don Wallace, 2012 thru 2015 916-422-8674/ [email protected] Fly Tying Demo John Daniels, 2011 thru 2015 530-750-3511/ [email protected] Fish Derby Tim Au-Young, 1999 thru 2015 916-688-3529/ [email protected] Fish in the Classroom Brandie Herron, 2010 thru 2015 916-364-7545/ [email protected] Howe Park Fish Derby vacant Library Jim Kelley, 2008 thru 2015 List Serve Meister Gregory Shaffer, 1999 thru 2015 530-271-5556/ [email protected] 916-725-4101/ [email protected] Logo Sales Glenn Yee, 2008 thru 2015 916-421-6922/ [email protected] Mentoring Andy Penn, 2014-2015 916-687-6799/ [email protected] NCCIFFF Rep. Jim Berdan, 2013-2015 916-448-3125/ [email protected] New Members Laurie Bank 916-709-1309/[email protected] Newsletter Editor Chris Weiland 2010 thru 2014 916-691-2873/ [email protected] Refreshments Beverly Lorens 916-283-6773/[email protected] SARA Rep. John Barris, 2012 thru 2015 916-524-5634/ [email protected] 916-689-1885/ [email protected] Annual BBQ vacant Sergeant At Arms Larry Coulter, 2007 thru 2015 Annual Dinner vacant Sportsmen’s Expo Richard Wilson, 2006 thru 2015 916-364-7545/ [email protected] Audio Visual Tech Arthur Herron, 2010 thru 2015 916-364-7545/ [email protected] Web Master Phoebe Larne, 2001 thru 2015 916-961-1462/ [email protected] Bittner Scholarship Bill Felts, 2010 thru 2015 916-768-0658/ [email protected] Youth Programs Gary Howard, 2000 thru 2015 916-383-1221/ [email protected] ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 3 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. JANUARY SPEAKER On January 6th, we were treated to an outstanding program by Jon Biaocchi that featured the Middle Fork of the Feather River in Plumas County. Jon started by dividing the river into three sections: the Recreation Zone, the Scenic Zone, and the Wild Zone, while describing the attributes of each one. He further broke it down by season and settled on summer as the best all around time to fish. He talked about the variety of fish and included a detailed discussion of the insect hatches and corresponding artificial flies to match. He then showcased the access points and talked about the appropriate gear needed for this stream. He even included a few guide tips (look for ledges, edges, dark water and always remember that foam is home!) I think it is worth mentioning here, that Jon’s stunning photographs of flora and fauna just seemed to bring this program over the top, and that dovetailed nicely with our own Photo Contest Awards Ceremony. (Congratulations to Phil McKibbin!) This was a terrific program and a great way to start the New Year! Ken Giesser Ken Giesser and Jon Biaocchi. Programs Director 2015 ISE SHOW CFFU was at the annual International Sportsmen's Exposition (ISE) event at Cal Expo in Sacramento, January 8-11, 2015. The ISE is one of CFFU's annual new members recruiting event, and we also raise funds for club activities and Kids programs by direct solicitation and a fly rod raffle. I asked club members to volunteer and help participate in manning our membership booth and making this year’s recruiting drive a success. I would like to thank everyone who helped with the ISE CFFU Membership Booth this year. Helping set up the booth two days before the show was: Howard Ross. On the first day of the show, I drove to the Nimbus Fish Hatchery to pick up 5 fish for our fish tank display. I would like to extend a special thanks to Buff Hendrickson for donating the Fly Rod for our booth raffle. The members who helped man the membership booth during the ISE were: John & Earlene Coldiron, Tim Landrus, Gary Howrd, Jack Harris, Dennis May, Craig McCulloch, Beth Ison, Dick Angus, Bill Siska, Bob Bettati, Brandie & Arthur Herron, Laurie Banks, Ron Adams, Meloney Welborn, Keith Adachi, Bob Roth, John Daniels, Rob Scafe, Russ Heckly, Beverly Lorens, Barry Tan, Larry Coulter, Michael & Christie Roberts, Rachel Comprendio, Nick Fitzgeraled, John Reed and I Rich Wilson. Nick Fitzgeraled and John Reed helped me take down the booth after the show. During the ISE show we only recruited 3 new memberships with a number of people who said they were interested and would attend our regular meeting to check us out. Thank you everyone for all your help and dedication during this year’s Sportsmen’s Exposition! Rich Wilson Membership Director CFFU ISE Chairman Jim Berdan at the vise tying another work of art. Dick Angus, Earlene Coldiron and Bev Lorens helping out at the CFFU booth. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 4 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. ISE YOUTH FAIR Each year California Fly Fishers Unlimited has a booth at the Youth Fair. This year year we tied over 200 hundred Woolly Bugger flies with the youth this year. I would like to thank the tiers that helped us this year Rich Wilson, Bob Effa, Dell Clark, Dick Angus, Jeff Howard, Bill Siska, Don Edgar, Sam Yee, John Coldiron, Laurie Banks, Mic McPherson, Greg Van Koersel, Gary Eastman, Tim Landrus, Ken Gieser, and Lanny Garman. Gary Howard CFFU members helping tie flies at the youth fair booth. Laurie Banks, Tim Landrus and Gary Eastman JANUARY 21st LADIES SOCIAL Hi All! Last night was an interesting and very informative meeting with fishing data from renowned, at least really smart, Dave Lentz. I am willing to bet not even the most seasoned fisherman in the club knew all the peculiarities of the fish we saw last night. Okay, maybe one or two but not many. Who among us can show us how to make a fly for a paddle fish? How does a Rainbow Trout turn into a Steelhead? What does semelparity mean? Which of the fish we catch regularly have a bony structure and which have a cartilage structure? What is an easy way to tell the trout families apart? Well, feeling extremely knowledgeable right now... There isn't a fly for the paddle fish as they eat plankton (and look quite strange!) so you get a big hook and snag them. No one knows what makes a rainbow become a big guy and join the steelhead group but they do. Semelparity is reproducing only once which is something salmon like to do. If you're putting out thousands of eggs it works. There was much more but I'm not sharing my notes (unless you ask for them). We all had dinner on our mind with the food we brought for "snacks" and it turned out to be a huge spread of dinner items and dessert. Delish! I made a careful list of the twenty people there but promptly lost it. Thank you, Dave, so much! And thank you Laurie Banks for putting this all together for us! Meloney Welborn CFFU FACEBOOK PAGE Do you have some pictures from your recent fishing trip you want to share with the club? How about that new fly you just mastered. Post your pictures and stories on CFFU’s Facebook page and tell the whole club. It’s easy to join and free to all current members. If you’re already on Facebook, just search “California Fly Fishers Unlimited” and ask to join the page. If you’re not on Facebook, go to facebook.com and sign up. Some of the extra content that could not fit into this month’s newsletter were added to our Facebook page. Check it out. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 5 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. FLY TIERS EXCHANGE by Don Wallace Photo’s by James Simon Jim Berdan tied a Ginny Midge on a TMC 2487 size 24 hook using Danville’s Flymaster black 70 Denier 6/0 thread. The head is a clear glass extra small bead. The body and wing are UV minnow body. The thorax is tying thread. Dell Clark tied a Don Stahl’s Pine Creek Special on a Tar gus 2487 size 14-16 (size 14 used) scud type hook using brown size 8/0 thread. The tail is amber Krystal Flash, two strands 11/4 x the length of the hook. The abdomen is peacock herl. The hackle is brown and the head is either white ostrich herl or a white bead. Note: Use under an indicator or as a trailer behind a woolly bugger, etc. Tim Landrus tied a Bloodworm on a heavy nymph hook size 12-16 using red thread. The tail is red marabou. The body is Red Nymph Glass wire. William Conway tied an Easy Tan Scud on a TMC 200 size 20 hook, using tan 8/0 thread. The body is tan dubbing. Comments: Easy to make. I used a tan 8/0 thread. Wrap the hook to the bend. Dub, very sparingly, wrap to the eye, then add a little extra at the eye and whip finish. Using a Velcro tool, rub the fiber on both sides of the hook. This will be the scud’s legs. Trim the fibers, longest to the eye. I then add a little “Hard as Nails” across the back to give it some durability. Enjoy, let me know how you do! The Demo Fly tied by Bruce Bartholomew was a Brian Chan Ruby Eyed Leech. It was tied on a size 6-10 2x or 3x long hook using black thread. The tail is Arizona Semi Seal red/black. The body is Arizona Semi Seal red/black. The head is two beads, a 1/8 bead and a red/silver bead behind the first bead. Comments: Use 1/8 bead head and a red/silver bead behind first bead. You either make a dubbing brush or just dub it. The dubbing brush makes a longer fly. After tying the fly, pick it out with a Velcro brush. Then dip it in very hot water and pick it out some more. Full directions are available on YouTube. Enter Brian Chan Ruby Eyed Leech. Fly Tier’s Exchange Gift Certificate Award To be part of the Fly Tier's Exchange, just tie 12 flies, turn them in to the exchange at the beginning of the meeting, and the exchange will distribute the participants flies to one another. You do not get your contribution back; you get everyone else's work! Your pattern can be of different sizes, but generally the flies are all the same pattern, the same size. Give it a try! Everyone who ties a dozen or more flies and donates them to the Fly Exchange, or to the club to support any club program, will have their name entered into a drawing. The winner of this drawing will receive a gift certificate for $25 to the American Fly Fishing Company. The drawing will be held at the monthly meeting. CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTHS WINNER ! Jim Berdan ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 6 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. FLY OF THE MONTH Tied and photographed by: Jim Berdan Ishigaki Kebari (Ishigaki Tenkara Fly Tenkara is the modern Japanese version of the earliest fly fishing. For thousands of years, a rod, a line and a fly were all they had, and all they needed. Modern tenkara rods are telescopic, long (10 to 14.5 feet), very light (2 to 4 ounces), collapse to 24" or less, and have no reel. Tenkara flies are unique and do not necessarily match a specific insect. These flies are very simple and most have a reverse hackle, which creates more resistance and acts like a parachute under water. This is known in Japan as the sakasa kebari style and is known here in the United States as tenkara style. Kebari translates as fly in English. The flies shown here are named after their Japanese tier and photos 5 and 6 are examples of other tenkara flies. MATERIALS: Thread: Danville Flymaster – 70 denier 6/0 – Black Hook: Tiemco 2499 – Size 12 Hackle: Saddle Hackle – Brown There are three basic materials used to tie tenkara flies: a hook, thread, and hackle. Some Japanese tiers use sewing thread, but here I recommend fly tying thread. Besides thread, you can use dubbing or even yarn for the body of the fly. Hooks used for this fly very from standard nymph hooks (straight or curved shank) to exotic Japanese eyeless hooks. Hackle can be soft, such as partridge, or the stiffer saddle hackle. For more information about tenkara flies or tenkara fishing, google it. Step 1 The best part of tenkara fishing is you don't have to use tenkara flies with a tenkara rod. You can use any of the flies that you know to be successful. Step 1) If you use a barbed hook, pinch the barb. Lay down a thread base to about the middle of the bend and return the thread to just behind the eye. Build up a small head about 1½ eye lengths behind the eye and leave the thread at that point. Step 2 Step 2) Prepare and tie in the hackle so that the dull side is facing toward the eye of the hook. Step 3 Step 3) Wrap the hackle (two or three turns) towards the bend of the hook and tie off. Pull the hackle fibers forward and add thread wraps to give the fly a reverse hackle appearance. Now build up a tapered body behind the hackle and whip finish behind the hackle. Step 4 Step 4) The finished fly. Takayama Kebari (Example) Amano Kebari (Example) ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 7 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. FOR DETAILS ON A PARTICULAR OUTING, PLEASE CONTACT THE FISHMEISTER OR ASST. FISHMEISTER February 7 Lower American River Fishmeister: Joe Vasquez Asst. Fishmeister: open February 21-22 Baum lake Fishmeister: Gary Crotwell Asst. Fishmeister: John Daniels April (TBA) Pyramid lake, NV Fishmeister: John Daniels Asst. Fishmeister:open April (TBA) Lower Sacramento River Fishmeister: Bo Nishimura Asst. Fishmeister: open May 23 Yuba River Fishmeister: Jeff Howard Asst. Fishmeister: open June 6-7 Davis Lake Fishmeister: Gene Goss Asst. Fishmeister: open June 12-14 Eagle Lake Fishmeister: Dennis May Asst. Fishmeister: open LOWER AMERICAN RIVER Fishmeister: Joe Vasquez (916) 591-7082 Date: February 7, 2015 at 9 am Where: American River access tour, starting at Sailor Bar. Fishing fees: $5.00 parking fee Summary: Talking about how a guide would fish the water on the American River. Directions: Take Highway 50 East to the Hazel Ave exit and go left to Winding Way. Turn left onto Winding Way to Illinois Ave and take a left. This will take you to a pay booth and meet at the boat launch ramp. Meal: If you want to meet for breakfast, meet Joe at Brookfield Restaurant at 8 am. The address for Brookfield is 11135 Folsom Blvd. Ranch Cordova. Fishing notes: Take a lot of notes. BAUM LAKE 2015 OUTING DATE: Feb 20-22, 2015 FISHMEISTER: Gary Crotwell 916-686-8690 or [email protected] ASSISTANT FISHMEISTER: John Daniels INFORMATION: Approximately four hour drive from the Sacramento area. Baum Lake is about 65 miles East of Redding Ca. The elevation is near 3400 feet so weather can vary from warm sunny to cold and snowy. Be prepared for whatever may come. SUMMARY: The best winter fishery in all of California. (My Opinion) MEETING LOCATION (MEAL AND/OR FISHING): Recommend that you drive to Burney CA which is just about ten miles from the Lake, either Friday night or early Saturday morning. There are a number of motels in Burney and all about the same price and value. I recommend the Charm Motel 530-335-2254. There are several Restaurants in town, everything from Pizza, McDonalds, Mexican, Chinese, and more. We will meet at the Lake Saturday Morning about 8:30 a.m. Some will be going up on Friday to fish the afternoon; we’ll try to keep everyone in touch. Bring your radio. Channel 10-4. FISHING FEES: Free DIRECTION/MAP: From Sacramento go north to Redding. Take highway 299 east to Burney. About seven miles out of Burney on 299 you’ll come to Cassel Road, turn right and go to approximately two miles (just past the world’s largest Ant) to the Baum Lake-Crystal Lake fish hatchery road. Turn left and go to the lake. There is a parking area with restrooms located at the lake. EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATION: Four or Five weight rods. There are times when there is a hatch and you’ll need a floating line and other times when an intermediate sinking line works best using a small wooly bugger or wiggle tail. You can also use nymphs under an indicator. All three are productive and different times. Pontoon boats, prams, or small aluminum boats are a great asset. There is some bank fishing but a boat will greatly improve your odds. FISHING NOTES: Fishing this time of the year is usually good with 10-20 fish days normal –no guarantee-it’s is fishing. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at my office phone during the day or home phone in the evenings. 916-686-8690 Office, 916-685-8625 Home. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 8 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. August 15 Sly Park September 19 Ice House reservoir October 17 Lake Amador November 21 Lower Yuba River Caples/ Woods Lake December 19 Lower American Fuller Lake When you arrive at the location, turn your radio to Channel 10-4 to contact other members to find out where they are meeting. February 21 Lake Camanche March 21 Rancho Seco April 18 Lake Pardee May 16 Stumpy Meadows June 20 July 19 What are SAFE outings? It’s an acronym for Sacramento Area Fishing Excursions and they are informal, no host outings at different locations each month. The purpose is to afford members an opportunity to get together and fish during the week. A valuable aspect of these outings is to help new members learn the art of fly fishing. To that end, anyone attending the outing that is willing to put on a short class should send a notice out on the list-serve so that new members know about the class. The topic of the class is entirely up to you and may include such topics as: using a float tube, rigging your fly rod, flies to use, water safety, casting from a float tube, etc. So get out there and meet new members and learn some of their tricks and techniques and make new fishing buddies. CONSERVATION TOPICS This is my initial contribution to the monthly CFFU newsletter. It is my goal to provide the CFFU membership with current information on conservation topics. My primary focus will be on local, regional or California topics; however, because many of us fish outside of California, I may present interesting conservation activities that are on going in other states. I will have articles in the monthly newsletter, but will also send periodic e-mails to the membership as necessary to keep you up to date on important conservation issues or projects. Please let me know if there are any specific conservation topics that you would like me to pursue. Have a great year of fishing. Keith Pfeifer Conservation Policy Director CONSERVATION NEWS The Berryessa-Snow Mountain region stretches from Putah Creek, across the Cache Creek Wilderness area, north to Snow Mountain in Mendocino National Forest. This area is approximately 350,000 acres and includes portions of Napa, Mendocino, Lake, Solano and Yolo counties. There is a wide range of recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, mountain biking, off-road vehicle tracks, white water rafting/kayaking, hunting and of course, fishing. Most fly fisherman are familiar with Putah Creek and Lake Berryessa as good waters for cool and warm water species. However, as you move north other fly fishing opportunities become available, including Cache Creek tributaries, East Park Reservoir, Stony Creek, Indian Valley Reservoir, Clear Lake, Blue Lake and the Upper Eel River. The Region has a wide variety of native and rare plants, such as Sargent’s cypress and the serpentine willow and is home to many birds and mammals, including the bald and golden eagle, black bear, mountain lion, tule elk, river otters and the rare Pacific fisher. Hunting opportunities abound for black-tailed deer, quail, blue grouse, turkey, pig, dove, pigeon, geese and ducks. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA 5th District) has been has been a long time advocate for changing the regulatory authority of this region. Currently, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Forest Service maintain responsibility for various tracts within the region. Since 2012 Rep. Thompson has been “pushing” legislation in the House to designate the region as a National Conservation Area. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA,) introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. The Congress must approve a National Conservation Area (NCA) designation. Unfortunately, even with widespread local support, these bills received no attention in the 2014 Congress. Rep. Thompson and other supporters decided that another approach was necessary to protect the natural, cultural or historical resources of this area. The President, without Congressional approval and under the authority granted him under the Antiquities Act, can designate an area as a National Monument (NM). There is little difference between a NCA and a NM when it comes to the allowable recreational activities. The National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management can manage National Monuments. Agency jurisdiction is not affected by NMs established by the President. Traditionally, National Monuments managed by the National Park Service have more use restrictions. The National Park Service is under the Jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior. On December 19, 2014, a meeting in Napa was hosted by Rep. Thompson to support a proposal to designate the Berryessa-Snow Mountain region as a National Monument. In attendance were Interior Secretary, Sally Jewell; Under Secretary of Agriculture, Robert Bonnie; Rep. John Garamendi among other supporters. Local support also came from 30 farmers, ranchers and landowners. The counties of Yolo, Napa, Lake and Solano, as well as the communities of Winters, Clearlake, Calistoga, St. Helen, West Sacramento and Davis have also supported a National Monument designation. Trout Unlimited (Sac-Sierra Chapter) is one notable conservation group expressing support. The most current information from Rep. Thompson’s office is that he soon will be introducing legislation in the 2015 Congress to designate the area as a national monument. He is also in contact with the Department of the Interior for support to encourage President Obama to designate the region a national monument. On January 11, 2015 an article in the Davis Enterprise indicated that California Assemblyman Bill Dodd (D-Napa) introduced a joint resolution (AJR4) petitioning President Obama to create the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. This resolution was co-authored by State Senators. Lois Wolk and Mike McGuire, and Assemblyman Jim Wood. For more information go to: www.sac-sierratu.org ; www.berryessasnowmountain.org Keith Pfeifer ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 9 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. 2014 PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS First place: Phil McKibbin (close-up of Brown Trout with fly) Date: 7/10/14 Location: Beaverhead River, MT Prize: framed certificate including copy of photo + $50 Visa gift card Second place: Jeff Howard (low light silhouette of fisherman) Date: 4/5/14 Location: Pyramid Lake, NV Prize: framed certificate including copy of photo + $25 Visa gift card Third place: Jim Stalder (stream, waterfall and someone fishing) Date: 10/3/14 Location: Little North Fork of Middle Fork, Feather River, CA Prize: framed certificate including copy of photo + $25 Visa gift card These are the winners of the first CFFU photo contest. The photo contest of 2014 was introduced by last year’s president Bob Effa and both Bob and Beth Ison ran the contest. Forrest Oldham acted as judge to reduce the number of photos to 20 and the club members then voted on the photos. The prizes awarded and framed pictures were paid for by Bob Effa. Let’s make the next photo contest even bigger. I know there are a lot of talented photographers out there. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 10 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. FEBRUARY FLY TYING CLASS Do you want to fill your fly box with those popular club patterns that cannot be found in the fly shops? Interested in advancing your knowledge of fly fishing to the next level? Well, now is your chance, because in January and February, the CFFU will offer beginning fly tying classes to all members interested in learning the art of tying flies. The class will cover the fundamentals of fly tying including: tools, materials, basic patterns, and basic tying techniques. You will complete your first fly during the first class, and each session will build on the skills learned in the previous one. By the end of the class you will be exposed to several different patterns, dry flies as well as wets. To cover club costs, there will be a $30 fee per person due at the first. Tools and all materials will be provided by the club. A similar class at the local shops can easily cost more than twice as much. The class is designed for beginners as well as members who have not tied it a while and need a refresher, and registration preference will go to first time students. The classes will meet Monday-Wednesday-Friday. The February class will be taught by Jim Berdan on February 23, 25 and 27 from 6:30-9:30pm at the Northminster Presbyterian Church Class Room, 3235 Pope Ave., Sacramento. Class size will be limited to the first six members who sign up AND pay their registration, and the minimum class size is 4. Registration for the February class will begin after the first class in January is filled. Want to be a better fly fisher? Learn to tie flies! John Daniels and Jim Berdan MARCH 8th SPEY CLINIC Everyone has so enjoyed our past spey clinics with Jeff Putnam, that we are going to do it again if I can get enough attendees, from 9-1 pm on March 8. Jeff Putnam of Jeff Putnam's Fly Fishing Schools (http://jpflyfishing.com/) will lead 4 hour tune-up spey casting lesson for minimum of 4 (max. 8) CFFU members. Jeff managed Kiene's Fly Shop before establishing his own school for fly casting and fishing, although you will still find him occasionally behind the counter of the new shop. He started using a spey rod long before it became fashionable and Jeff has been an IFFF Certified Spey Casting Instructor from the inception of the IFFF certification program. In my opinion, Jeff is one of the best casting instructors in the area for the double- or singled-handed rod. This class will be for those who have worked with a two-handed or switch rod before, and are looking to improve their casts and perhaps pick up some new techniques. Advanced-beginners and intermediate spey casters would all benefit from this course. Also, Jeff is usually very good about having access to the latest equipment, so this can be a great opportunity to try out other rods and lines, thus narrowing the eternal search for the perfect combination. Cost of the class is $50/person, which is quite a deal when you look at the going rate for spey casting instruction. You can reserve as spot by dropping me a line but when we get the class scheduled, you will have to also send me a check for $50 made out to "Jeff Putnam's Fly Fishing Schools" for that spot to be confirmed. If you are interested get back to me as soon as you can. John E. Daniels AMERICAN RIVER CLEAN-UP I want to thank the following Club members who braved the cold and fog to participate in the January 24th American River Clean-up: Bill Conway and his pup, Dell Clark, Chuck Parrett, Larry Coulter, Wally DeWitt, Dave Ford, Dick Angus, Nick Fitzgerald, Russ Heckley, Phil Shipley, Greg Howard, Bob and Phoebe Larne, Howard Ross, Jeff Howard, Jake Mater, Tom Worth, David Lentz, Michael and Christie Roberts, Betty and Keith Pfeifer, Robin Costa, Craig McCulloch, John Moseley, Bill and Penny Siska, Pam Felts, and especially Carl (Sniper) Lang. If I missed anyone, please let me know. Bill Felts American River Clean-up Meister FEBRUARY 25th MONTHLY SOCIAL When: Wednesday, February 25th 6:30-8:30 pm Where: East Ranch Clubhouse. 150 East Ranch Road, Sacramento (directions below) According to the Orvis Guide to Beginning Fly Fishing, the minimum equipment people need to begin fly fishing is a rod, reel with floating line, leader and a fly. But soon they realize that adding a few more items will make their fishing easier and more fun. Boots, waders, a box of flies, tippet and nippers might be their next few purchases. But what kind of boots and waders are the best? Which flies should they choose? The amount and variety of items involved in fly fishing can be overwhelming! February’s social is for fly fishers of all levels. It provides a chance for our new members to get to know each other, and meet some of our more experienced club members. Fly fishers of all levels are welcome! Please bring your favorite accessory, piece of equipment, story, and words of wisdom or questions that you are willing to share with the group. New members can get some of the answers to their questions, and we’ll all gain some valuable tips! If you would like to bring food or drink (even adult beverages) to share it would be much appreciated!! Remember to wear your name badge if you have one. Don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me if you have any questions. Hope to see you on the 25th! Laurie Banks (916) 709-1309 Directions: The East Ranch Clubhouse is part of a condominium complex. The address is 150 East Ranch Road. It is located near Highway 50, off the Howe exit. The nearest cross streets are American River Drive and Munroe. East Ranch Road doesn’t have a street sign but a low stone monument in a flower bed. There are two entrances; the clubhouse is by the southern one. Power lines straddle this entrance providing a great landmark. As you turn on to East Ranch Road you will notice eight parking spots on the right hand side. (If these are full you can park on either side of the street). Directly in front of the parking spaces you will see the wrought iron fence surrounding the pool. The clubhouse is attached to the swimming pool. ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 11 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved. OTTER’S ACTIVITIES The OTTER’S (OLD TIMERS TYING, EATING and RECREATIONAL SOCIETY) generally meets weekly for lunch, fly tying and fishing. Everyone is welcome at CFFU OTTERS events. Even “working” folks who may have a day off. An e-mail is sent on the CFFU listserv before each activity; please respond if you will be attending and then just show up. CALIFORNIA FLY FISHERS UNLIMITED CFFU is a non-profit community organization serving Sacramento and statewide. Since its inception in 1962, the club’s objective has been to promote increased awareness and participation in the art of fly fishing, particularly among families. CFFU also promotes the enhancement and preservation of resources through conservation efforts and in-school programs. Club activities and membership participation include monthly fly fishing programs where special guest speakers provide information on angling around the world. The club also has at least one club outing a month on the water, technical fly fishing clinics and classes, and conservation projects. Meetings are held at 7:00PM on the first Tuesday of the month at Conzelmann Community Center, 2201 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA. Individual annual dues are $30 per member, $45 per family, renewed in January of each year and prorated after June 30 th for those joining later, and a $10 initiation fee. Board of Directors meetings are held on the Monday preceding the regular first Tuesday meeting at the law offices of Hiroshima, Lewis and Daggett, 1420 River Park Dr., Sacramento, 95815. ON THE FLY is the official monthly newsletter of the California Fly Fishers Unlimited, P.O. Box 162997, Sacramento, CA 95816. No claim is made by the organization as to the accuracy or veracity of any information within this publication. Apologies are made in advance for all errors and offenses as none are intended. No warranties are made by CFFU on any products or services discussed in this newsletter. Submission of articles and news items is welcomed and encouraged. Preferred format is in an e-mail attachment in plain text sent to [email protected]. Pictures will only be returned upon request. Absolute Deadline for submissions – 25th OF THE MONTH [email protected] WWW.CFFU.ORG Talk about it! Window on the Fishing World SACRAMENTO, CA. 95816 P.O. BOX 162997 ON THE FLY CALIFORNIA FLY FISHERS UNLIMITED ON THE FLY— February 2015 Page 12 Copyright (c) 2006 CFFU— All rights reserved.
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